Contact number: 020 7806 4010
Contact number: 020 7078 3831
What is Nipple Reconstruction Surgery?
Nipple reconstruction surgery involves recreating the nipple and areola to restore the breast’s natural appearance following mastectomy or to correct anomalies. This procedure is typically considered the final phase of breast reconstruction and can be performed once the new breast mound has fully healed and settled. Techniques vary from using local skin flaps and grafts to tattooing (also known as micropigmentation) to achieve your desired colour and texture. This is tailored to meet your individual needs and preferences.
Nipple Reconstruction Surgery at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we provide private nipple reconstruction surgery in a supportive and professional environment. Our hospital is highly regarded for it’s caring and friendly staff with highly experienced consultants and state-of-the-art facilities ensuring the best medical care.
Choosing us for your nipple reconstruction surgery offers several benefits:
- Expert Consultants: Our team of specialists ensures personalised treatment plans to help you achieve the outcome you want.
- Same-Day Appointments: Access to prompt consultations to minimise delays and waiting lists
- Convenient Location: Based in St John’s Wood (NW8), we’re easily accessible for patients across London.
- Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation to post-operative support, we provide continuous care throughout your journey.
We aim to make your experience with us as comfortable as possible, delivering expert care with compassion and professionalism.
Medically reviewed by Mrs Jacqueline Lewis - FRCS(Glasg) FRCS(Plast) on 25/04/2024
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), a well-connected and vibrant area of North West London, known for landmarks such as Regent’s Park and Abbey Road Studios. We are easily accessible from neighbouring areas, including Hampstead (NW3) and Kilburn (NW6):
- By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital. For patients travelling from Hampstead (NW3), Finchley Road station (Jubilee Line) offers a convenient route, while Kilburn (NW6) is similarly well served by the same line.
- By Bus:
Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
- By Car: If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, use major roads like Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road for a direct approach.
Our hospital’s location in St John’s Wood ensures easy access for patients across London, particularly from the NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes
Nipple reconstruction surgery typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete, depending on the complexity of the procedure and which techniques are used. This procedure is often performed as a day case, meaning most patients can return home on the same day.
Your consultant will provide detailed information about how long the surgery will take and the process during your pre-surgery consultation to ensure you are fully prepared. At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we prioritise patient comfort and care, offering expert guidance every step of the way.
Following nipple reconstruction, our dedicated aftercare team will provide you with comprehensive support and guidance to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Immediate Post-Op Care
- Observation: Initially, you’ll be closely monitored by our nursing team to manage any discomfort and ensure your well-being.
- Home Recovery: Most patients are able to return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions to support healing.
- Wound Care: Instructions on how to care for the surgical site and any dressings will be provided, along with signs of complications to watch for.
Recovery Process
- Activity Restrictions: You may be advised to limit physical activity, especially movements that might stress the surgical site, for a period following your surgery.
- Follow-Up Appointments: These are essential to monitor your healing and the success of the reconstruction. Your surgeon will schedule these appointments as needed.
Long-Term Care
- Sensation: It’s important to note that reconstructed nipples may not have the same sensation as natural nipples.
- Aesthetic Touch-Ups: Some patients may require or desire minor revisions or tattoo enhancements to achieve the desired aesthetic result.